More by Walter

Q: What does the Cinco de Mayo holiday commemorate? —Ernesto M., San Jose, Calif.

A: The occasion marks Mexico’s victory against invading French military forces on May 5, 1862. It’s celebrated more in the U.S. than in Mexico, and in many communities (especially Los Angeles) it has become a way to share Mexican-American culture with dishes like chalupas, mariachi music, and traditional dances.

Toast the festivities with some Mexican-food-enhancing beverages in these eight delicious recipes for new takes on sangria! They’re great with spicy food. (Even though sangria actually hails originally from Spain and Portugal, it’s become a staple at Spanish and Latin-American restaurants throughout the U.S.)